Drugs containing codeine will soon need a prescription in Manitoba

WINNIPEG — Starting Feb. 1, all drugs containing codeine will require a prescription in Manitoba.

This includes codeine products, such as Tylenol 1, Robaxacet-8, Calmylin and some cough syrups, which could previously be purchased without a prescription.

The College of Pharmacists of Manitoba said its making the move in order to address the serious side effects of the drug when used improperly, including addiction and liver failure.

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“This change will help reduce the harmful effects that can occur with the improper use of the exempted codeine products,” said College President, Glenda Marsh.

Share this on X Click to share quote on X: "This change will help reduce the harmful effects that can occur with the improper use of the exempted codeine products," said College President, Glenda Marsh.

Under the new rule, a person must be assessed in person by a doctor, a nurse-practitioner, dentist, or a pharmacist before getting a prescription to buy an exempted codeine product.

Codeine is a narcotic used as an opioid remedy for the relief of mild to moderate pain and treatment of coughs.

With files from the Canadian Press